McShea's Say: Jim McGuinness made his best call yet as Murphy’s return lifts Donegal

Along with 13,000 Donegal and Armagh followers, I was fortunate to be in Ballybofey on Sunday to witness our county defeat the All-Ireland champions in a thrilling match that will live long in the memory. 

As Michael Murphy closed the door on his inter-county career a few short years ago, tributes poured in. Of course, there was plenty of comment from the media, but what really mattered was what the genuine football fans, players, coaches, and the public had to say. 

Michael stands among the legends of football — an All-Ireland senior medalist and a recipient of multiple individual awards. With Donegal football in his blood, Michael never simply dreamed of greatness; throughout his glittering career, he relentlessly pursued it. 

READ NEXT: Jim McGuinness praises Michael Murphy's impact as Donegal’s leader returns 

Every day, he strategised on how to reach the pinnacle of the sport he cherished and, once there, how to remain at the top. 

Michael’s illustrious career brought him moments of profound triumph and heart-wrenching defeat. But his success was no accident — it was the result of unwavering focus. Every decision, from his education to his career and lifestyle, was shaped by his dedication to Donegal football.  

Having watched Michael excel in the Donegal championship for his club Glenswilly against Four Masters last season, I bumped into Donegal manager Jim McGuinness in Donegal Town, and we were at one in lamenting Michael’s decision to retire.  

However, that evening, I got the impression that Jim was hopeful of getting Michael back, although he never said so. 

On Sunday in MacCumhaill Park, after 44 minutes, the decibel levels went through the roof as Michael made his first appearance in the green and gold after almost three years. In a distinguished managerial career, I don’t believe Jim will ever make a better call.  

Murphy was met with aggression by Armagh captain Aidan Forker, who put his head into Michael’s chest, leaving referee Seán Hurson with no option but to show Forker a straight red card for his petty and dangerous provocation.  

Michael was coolness personified in the face of Forker’s attempt to upset his concentration, and the best way to retaliate was by putting points on the board — something the Glenswilly man did with three vital scores. 

It was a tonic to see Michael return, and he made a serious contribution to Donegal’s victory. His one-handed catch among three Armagh players late in the game was a moment of the highest quality, and his return is great news for every Donegal fan.  

Donegal played really well in this match — the quality of their football was highly impressive, and they have matured into a formidable outfit. 

Captain for the day, Paddy McBrearty, won the Man of the Match award, while his work rate was especially impressive. His Kilcar clubmate, Ryan McHugh, must also have been in contention for the award.  

Ryan’s physique is like that of a greyhound — he never puts on weight and has an incredible burst of speed. One aspect of the game that has not changed is the importance of speed and accuracy in passing, and few, if any, players in the modern game are as good as Ryan at creating and delivering quality scores when his team needs them most. 

The Donegal defence played with tigerish determination, a key factor in their success being their ability to hunt in packs — something that can only be achieved with the serious level of fitness Donegal have acquired so early in the season.  

Two defenders in particular, Finnbarr Roarty and Mark Curran, put in impressive performances. Roarty was playing very well before his injury, while the Dungloe defender, Curran, was confident and assured in every aspect of his game. 

In attack, Jamie Brennan hit two good scores in what was his best outing for some time. The large home attendance also played its part, providing great vocal support that was a real boost to the team.  

Beating Dublin, Kerry, and Armagh is an excellent start to the league, but a word of caution: Armagh were back within two points midway through the second half, playing with a strong but deceptive wind, and Forker’s sending-off was a factor in the outcome.  

While I have no doubt that Donegal would still have prevailed, Forker’s foolishness and Murphy’s introduction were vital to the result. 

Galway Next Up 

This Sunday, Donegal head to Pearse Stadium to play a Galway side that is also doing well in this campaign. As the top two in Division 1, the bookmakers have both sides quoted at evens to win, clearly anticipating a close encounter. 

Galway dominated their game against Derry in Celtic Park last Saturday, but in a game of two halves, they were fortunate to draw the match.  

If Donegal manages to keep tabs on Shane Walsh — who is deadly accurate with the dead ball and has already delivered several crucial two-pointers in the league — they are good enough to make it four wins out of four this Sunday.